It was an audaciously ambitious idea: A week-long series of events, including a four-day conference on different subjects and different venues, all in London. But it was a great idea and all sponsors and organizers should be proud of themselves. Several hundred people gathered to hear Ukrainians pitch the investment potential in the nation. While it would have been nicer to have more representation from British business, those who came listened with open minds.
Ukraine and the United Kingdom have bilateral trade of just over $1.3 billion, more can be done — especially since both nations, after Brexit, will be outside the European Union and can craft a distinct bilateral relationship. Britain imports half of its food, and Ukraine is a major producer. This is just one areas of mutual interest. Because of the Kremlin’s nerve-gas assassination attempt, which killed a British citizen in its failed quest to kill an ex-Russian spy, London is alert to the menace of Vladimir Putin and ready to get tough. This makes Britain a natural ally in foreign policy.
